Image by Holly Fasching
Dan Pietrzak of KKR featured as Gruhn lecture speaker.
Daniel Pietrzak ’97 ’28P, partner and global head of private credit at KKR, shared his thoughts on the evolution of the financial markets post the global financial crisis at this year’s Donald M. Gruhn ’49 Distinguished Finance Speaker Series this past October.
Over 500 faculty, students, alumni and staff gathered in Baker Hall at the Zoellner Arts Center to discover how the 2008 Great Recession reshaped global markets and explored shifts in the regulatory landscape, the rise of private credit and the increasing role of alternative investments. Pietrzak, led by moderator Nandu Nayar, professor in the Perella Department of Finance and Hans Julius Bär Chair, discussed how these changes continue to influence strategies and opportunities in today’s financial markets.
When asked about the role of AI, Pietrzak said KKR is using it to make its client experience better. “The biggest impact in financial services today is call centers,” said Pietrzak. But, he added, “The real impact of AI, due to its need for computing power, is the amount of money going into the data center space. It’s turned into a small asset class.”
Pietrzak, who heads a team of 125, encouraged students in the audience to look for “stretch assignments.” He said to search for jobs that are broad and dynamic and don’t be afraid to bite off more than you think you can chew.